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Some of the best things in life come in small packages and little dogs most certainly live up to the adage. They have their own charm, their own undeniable advantages, health problems, etc. They are wonderful travel companions and a great choice for those staying in apartments. And dogs big or small have the beautiful virtues of loyalty and loving us humans only for what we are, no questions asked.

Here are ten cool small dog breeds that were voted as the best out there by the reputed American Kennel Association

Bichon Frise: At 12 pounds and only 11 inches in height, these dogs are good representatives of the class. These cheerful dogs are comfortable in water. They have an attractive structure with a gorgeous tail.

Chinese Crested Powder Puffs: At approximately 13 inches in height and weighs 12 pounds; the breed is an interesting one. An intelligent breed, it can be trained to give company to the old and the infirm. The dogs have a fine coat that needs timely grooming to ensure that no matting occurs.

Toy Fox Terrier (TFT): The breed originated in the U.S; these are hunting dogs and with high levels of energy and are explorers by nature. This said, if you provide it with its daily dose of exercise, it will adapt admirably to a lifestyle in an apartment.

Yorkshire Terrier: A famous representative of the terrier breed; these dogs have a distinguished appearance and a feisty character. Again, an energetic breed, these dogs need to be given regular physical stimulation for energy release.

Chihuahua: The smallest dog breed in the world, the Chihuahuas originated in Mexico; a lifespan of up to 18 years means that you have a wonderfully intelligent and fun companion for a long time. Moreover, they don’t need much exercise and are therefore ideal for apartment dwellers.

Papillon: The word is French for “butterfly” and these dogs are so called because of their fringed ears that resemble butterflies. The dogs do not shed and that’s a big positive for apartment owners. However, these are restless dogs that demand activity.

Affenpinscher: This breed of small dogs comes from Germany and is so-called because of their primate-like appearance. “Affe” in German means monkey. They make admirable companion dogs once they are properly housebroken.

Japanese Chin: An old breed that was the favorite of Japanese royalty and Chinese nobility. These are sweet-natured dogs and intelligent too. The breed is considered cat-like in attitude.

Pomeranian: Another small dog from Deutschland. Pomeranians are smart, doughty, and noisy dogs. They will bark full-tilt at strangers and continue till the owner intervenes. These are outgoing, extroverted dogs that will reciprocate its owners love with whole-hearted loyalty.

Toy Poodle: The toy poodles are an intelligent breed that was once upon a time used as water retrievers. They need their dose of mental activity. These are affectionate animals that love their owners.